Keynote Speakers
Dr. Cigdem Bakir
University of Kutahya Dumlupinar
Turkey
Dr. Cigdem Bakir
University of Kutahya DumlupinarTurkey
Biography
Çiğdem Bakir is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Software Engineering at Kütahya Dumlupınar University, Faculty of Engineering, in Türkiye. She received her Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering from Sakarya University in 2010, and her Master's and Doctorate degrees in Computer Engineering from Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul. She worked as a Research Assistant at Yıldız Technical University and Iğdır University. Between 2020 and 2021, she worked as a Lecturer at Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University. Since 2021, she has been working as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Software Engineering at Kütahya Dumlupınar University. Her research interests include artificial intelligence, object detection, information security, distributed databases, big data, blockchain technology, cloud computing, and computer networks
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Dr. Khaled Goher
Canadian University Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Dr. Khaled Goher
Canadian University DubaiUnited Arab Emirates
Biography
Dr Khaled Goher is an internationally recognized academic leader, Chartered Engineer, and Fellow of the UK Higher Education Academy with over two decades of experience across leading institutions in the UK, New Zealand, and the Middle East. He holds Senior Leadership Status in Higher Education from the University of Nottingham. He is currently serving as Chair of the Department of Electrical Engineering and Associate Professor of Mechatronics and Robotics at Canadian University Dubai (CUD). He has held several academic and leadership roles, and he is known for advancing engineering education through curriculum modernization, programme accreditations (IMechE, IET, ABET), and the creation of pioneering degrees such as Biomedical Engineering and interdisciplinary healthcare micro credentials. His student-centred approach consistently enhances employability, curriculum relevance, and institutional reputation.
Dr Goher’s research spans soft robotics, mechatronic systems, and control, with applications in rehabilitation, elderly mobility, food handling, and precision agriculture. Integrating AI, machine learning, and additive manufacturing, he has produced over 80 publications, secured multiple patents, and attracted more than $1M in research funding. Internationally, he plays a leading role in the CLAWAR Association, coordinates robotics networks and conferences, and contributes to BSI and ISO committees on robotics ethics, safety, and design. A non-traditional academic, Dr Goher combines vision, diligence, and commercial acumen, consistently delivering impact by developing people, strengthening institutions, and advancing sustainable, human-centred engineering.
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Dr. Kasun Amarasinghe
Carnegie Mellon University
United States
Dr. Kasun Amarasinghe
Carnegie Mellon UniversityUnited States
Biography
Kasun Amarasinghe, a Research Fellow at LIRNEasia, is also a Senior Research Scientist in the Data Science for Public Policy Lab at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU). Kasun studies the use of Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the public sector and focuses on three areas:
(1) building and deploying AI/ML systems in collaboration with government agencies and non-profit organisations in different policy domains,
(2) conducting research in responsible AI disciplines such as explainability and algorithmic fairness, and
(3) developing and conducting training programs to train students, data scientists, and policy practitioners to scope, develop, and evaluate AI
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